What’s the difference between a podiatrist/chiropodist and a foot health practitioner?

The terms podiatrist and chiropodist are interchangeable and both titles are protected by law.  However podiatrist is the modern universally accepted term and is use by most practitioners as it better reflects the advanced medical scope of practice.

In the UK a podiatrist has completed a BSC (hons) degree in podiatric medicine. This is a three or four year degree program specific to the foot and lower limb. Podiatrists have also trained in pharmacology so are also able to access local anaesthetic and perform minor surgeries within their scope of practice. A podiatrist is HCPC regulated and commits to continuous professional development (CPD).

A foot health practitioner (FHP) typically undergo shorter programs, most can be completed in one year and they focus on general foot care. There is no statutory regulation of training and they are not expected to carry out CPD but many do. 

There is room for both podiatrists and FHP in the foot health workforce but it is crucial to identify and work within the limits of our scopes of practice and make those obvious to the public. A FHP must not advertise themselves as a podiatrist/chiropodist. A FHP can treat diabetic feet but only for preventative care and general maintenance advanced diabetic foot issues, consult a podiatrist.